Dark clouds stretch low across the Spokane Valley this morning as breezy conditions pick up along residential streets and the wet pavement reflects a dull gray sky. Umbrellas tug in the rising wind, and commuters may feel early gusts push against vehicles on I-90 and the Sunset Hill climb. The atmosphere already feels primed for a stronger push of December weather.
According to the National Weather Service, a Wind Advisory takes effect this evening at 7 p.m. through 7 a.m. Tuesday, with southwest winds 20 to 35 mph and gusts up to 55 mph. These winds can blow around unsecured objects, snap small limbs, and produce scattered power outages across Spokane, Cheney, Pullman, Ritzville, and nearby communities. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should expect difficult handling, especially during exposed stretches west of the metro.
Rain remains likely today and continues in various rounds through Wednesday, keeping roads slick and visibility reduced during peak travel times. Light accumulations each period—often under a quarter inch—will still slow traffic and could pool along curbs where drainage is limited. Meteorologists note that saturated soils may increase the risk for tree uprooting and minor debris issues as winds peak tonight.
A broader national pattern adds more winter context. Long-range models show a clipper system delivering bi-daily snow across the Great Lakes December 11–17, with lake-effect bands targeting Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, and western New York. Bitter Arctic air will plunge into New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the Ohio Valley this weekend, creating flash-freeze potential and dangerous wind chills.
Five-Day Outlook (Spokane, WA)
• Tuesday: Chance of rain, high 50°.
• Wednesday: Rain likely, high 52°.
• Thursday: Chance of rain, high 52°.
• Friday: Slight chance of rain, high 52°.
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 51°.
